Seaplane plan for lakes

The scheme is the brainchild of Dublin based entrepreneur Dick Branston who says Craigavon is the ideal spot for the airport - port being the operative word.

However, there is a major hurdle to overcome as the ‘balancing lakes’ aren’t quite as balanced as you might think - in fact the lakes are on a bit of a slope.

It means the aircraft would only be able to take-off in one direction - downhill.

It leaves Mr Branston in something of a pickle as he faces a choice of either bringing balance back to the lakes or settling for an airport that will only operate when the wind is blowing just right.

Mr Branston commented, “I have a problem with wind and it’s something we will have to look at before the project gets off the ground - or water.

“Levelling the lakes could be an expensive proposition, but it may be my only choice. The wind could become a chronic problem and if the flightpath isn’t just right people could kick up a stink.”

Mr Branston’s Architect Drew Connery said the strip would include a terminal and control tower capable of dealing with six flights a day, mainly short-haul flights and sightseeing trips to give local an aerial view of Craigavon’s roundabouts.